Effortless Chicken Tetrazzini: Creamy Pasta with Chicken, Mushrooms, and Peas

If you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, Effortless Chicken Tetrazzini is your answer. This easy-to-make casserole combines tender chunks of chicken with pasta, mushrooms, and peas in a creamy, savory sauce. Topped with a golden, crispy layer, it’s a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners, this Chicken Tetrazzini is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Ingredients:
2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie or leftover chicken works great)
8 oz pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or rotini)
1 cup sliced mushrooms (white or cremini)
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil (for toasting breadcrumbs)

Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Vegetables:

In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, and cook until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant. Stir in the thawed peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Set the vegetable mixture aside.
Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form. Continue to cook until the sauce begins to thicken.

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
Assemble the Casserole:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, and vegetable mixture. Pour the creamy sauce over the top and stir until everything is well coated.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Add the Topping:

In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the breadcrumbs.
Bake:

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Serve:

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it as a main dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for Success:
For Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce or a splash of white wine for a bit of sophistication.

Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Why This Recipe Works:
Effortless Chicken Tetrazzini is all about combining convenience with comforting flavors. The creamy sauce, made with a simple roux and a generous amount of Parmesan cheese, creates a rich and velvety coating for the pasta, chicken, and vegetables. The addition of mushrooms and peas adds texture and freshness, while the breadcrumb and cheese topping ensures a satisfying crunch.

This dish is versatile, allowing you to use leftover chicken and adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making a hearty meal for your family with minimal effort.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal to share with loved ones, Effortless Chicken Tetrazzini delivers on both flavor and convenience. It’s a classic casserole that brings warmth and satisfaction to the table with every bite.